Halley’s Comet in Indian History
Historical discovery was made in India. A copper plate inscription from 1456 CE was found at the Srisailam Mallikarjunaswamy temple in Andhra Pradesh. This inscription is the first epigraphical reference to Halley’s Comet in Indian history. It was announced by Dr. K. Munirathnam Reddy, the Director of the Epigraphy Branch of the Archaeological Survey of India. The inscription provides insight into the cultural and astronomical understanding of comets during the Vijayanagar period.
Details of the Inscription
The inscription is written in Sanskrit using the Nagari script. It documents a grant made by the Vijayanagar ruler Mallikarjuna. This grant was issued on June 28, 1456 CE, corresponding to the date of Halley’s Comet’s appearance. The inscription mentions the appearance of the comet and a meteor shower, events traditionally viewed as ominous.
Cultural Significance of Comets
In many ancient cultures, including Indian traditions, comets were seen as harbingers of misfortune. The inscription refers to the belief that the appearance of a comet could lead to calamities. To counter these perceived threats, the ruler made a land grant to a Vedic scholar. This act reflects the societal need to mitigate fears associated with celestial events.
The Astronomical Context
Halley’s Comet is known for its periodic appearances. The inscription aligns with historical records confirming its visibility in 1456. Dr. Reddy brought into light that while ancient texts mention comets, this is the first documented instance in an inscription. It illustrates the advanced understanding of astronomy among scholars of the time.
The Scholar and the Grant
The grant was given to a Brahmin named Limgaṇarya, who was likely knowledgeable in astronomy. He received a village named Simgapura as an agrahāra. This reflects the patronage of scholars by rulers, indicating the importance of learning and knowledge in the Vijayanagar Empire.
Future Research and Publication
The discovery was made during a meticulous review of unpublished copper plate charters. The collection consists of 78 copper leaves, which are set to be published in book form. This publication will provide further vital information about the historical and cultural context of the Vijayanagar period.
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